Authentic Goan Neuries Recipe: A Traditional Indian Sweet Delight

Ingredients

  • 500 grams of Refined Flour (Maida)
  • 200 grams of Semolina (Rava)
  • 1 tablespoon of Salt
  • 2 tablespoons of Ghee
  • 500 grams of grated Coconut
  • 500 grams of Sugar
  • 100 grams of chopped Cashews
  • 100 grams of chopped Raisins
  • 1 teaspoon of Cardamom Powder
  • Vegetable Oil for frying

Steps and instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine Refined Flour (Maida), Semolina (Rava), Salt and Ghee.
  2. Add water gradually and knead into a smooth dough. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
  3. In a pan, roast the grated Coconut until it turns golden brown. Allow it to cool.
  4. Add Sugar, chopped Cashews, chopped Raisins and Cardamom Powder to the roasted Coconut and mix well.
  5. Divide the dough into small balls. Roll out each ball into a thin circle.
  6. Place a little of the Coconut mixture in the center of each circle. Fold in half and seal the edges using water.
  7. Heat Vegetable Oil in a deep pan. Deep fry the Neuries until golden brown on both sides.
  8. Drain the Neuries on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
  9. Allow the Neuries to cool before serving.

Tools for making

  • Mixing Bowl - A bowl for combining the ingredients and kneading the dough.
  • Pan - A cooking pan for roasting the grated coconut and other ingredients.
  • Rolling Pin - A tool used to roll out the dough into thin circles.
  • Deep Pan - A pan with deep sides for frying the Neuries in oil.
  • Paper Towel - Used to drain excess oil from the fried Neuries.

Recipe variations

  • Using Whole Wheat Flour instead of Refined Flour for a healthier variation.
  • Adding a pinch of Nutmeg powder to the Coconut mixture for an extra flavor.
  • Replacing the grated Coconut with desiccated Coconut for a different texture.
  • Adding a spoonful of Poppy Seeds (Khus Khus) to the Coconut mixture for added crunch.
  • Incorporating a filling of chopped dry fruits like almonds, pistachios, and walnuts along with the Coconut mixture.
  • For a savory twist, substituting the sweet filling with a mixture of spiced mashed potatoes or paneer (Indian cottage cheese).
  • Experimenting with different shapes like half-moon, triangle, or square instead of the traditional half-circle shape.
  • Drizzling the fried Neuries with honey or a sugar syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.

Recipe overview

Neuries are a traditional Goan sweet that is especially loved during Christmas. This delicious dessert is made with a crispy outer layer of refined flour and semolina, filled with a sweet and flavorful mixture of roasted coconut, sugar, cashews, raisins, and a hint of cardamom. Deep-fried to golden perfection, these sweet treats have a unique taste and texture that will delight your taste buds. This recipe is a step-by-step guide to help you make these wonderful treats right at home. Notably, Neuries are perfect for festive occasions and are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy the process of making these delicacies and delight in their sweet and crunchy goodness.

Common questions

  1. How long does it take to make Neuries?
    It takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to make Neuries.
  2. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of refined flour?
    While it's possible to use whole wheat flour as a substitute, the texture and taste of Neuries may differ from the traditional recipe.
  3. Can I use desiccated coconut instead of grated coconut?
    Yes, you can use desiccated coconut as a substitute for grated coconut. However, the texture and flavor might be slightly different.
  4. Can I bake the Neuries instead of frying them?
    Neuries are traditionally deep-fried for a crispy texture. Baking them may alter the taste and texture of the final product.
  5. How long can I store Neuries?
    Neuries can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
  6. Can I freeze the Neuries?
    Yes, Neuries can be frozen in a sealed container for up to 1 month. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A bowl for combining and kneading the dough.
  • Pan - Used for roasting the grated Coconut.
  • Deep Pan - For deep frying the Neuries.
  • Rolling Pin - Helps in rolling out the dough into thin circles.
  • Paper Towel - To drain excess oil from the fried Neuries.

Origin stories

Neuries, these delightful sweet pastries, are a hallmark of the Goan Christmas sweet platter, a tradition carried forward from the Portuguese colonial rule in Goa, India. Each household takes deep pride in their unique Neuri recipe, handed down through generations, and there's a charming race in every neighborhood to be known as the best Neuri maker. Traditionally, Neuries are made in large batches and shared with neighbors, symbolizing communal harmony and the spirit of giving during the festive season. There's a saying in Goa, "It's not Christmas without Neuries", which truly captures the essence of this beloved sweet treat.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.